The UAE’s investment in high-speed rail comes as part of a broader global trend, with countries like China and Southeast Asia leading the way in rail infrastructure. The Etihad Rail project positions the UAE to remain competitive with infrastructure advancements across the region.

In collaboration with Spain's Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF), Etihad Rail will design, manufacture, supply, and maintain state-of-the-art passenger trains. Each train is built to carry over 400 passengers and will travel at speeds of up to 350 km/h (217 mph), offering first-class, business-class, and economy sections.

The network will drastically cut travel times across the UAE. For example, trips from Abu Dhabi to Dubai and from Dubai to Fujairah will take about 50 minutes each, while travel from Abu Dhabi to Al Ruwais will take roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes. The Abu Dhabi to Fujairah route is expected to take around 1 hour and 40 minutes, cutting commute times by 30-40%. This reduction is anticipated to bring significant economic benefits and make travel more accessible to a broader population.

By 2030, Etihad Rail aims to carry 36 million passengers annually. The network will connect 11 cities and regions, spanning from Al Sila to Fujairah, including major areas such as Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Abu Dhabi.

Etihad Rail has emphasized the importance of the project, stating that it will provide seamless connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, improving quality of life and strengthening the socioeconomic relationship between the two emirates. The rail system will also support business growth, particularly in logistics and tourism, helping drive sustainable development for future generations.

Construction will continue over the next decade, with plans to complete the Dubai to Abu Dhabi section by 2027.